Canon A-Series SLR models- Guestbook/Message Board

Modern Classic SLRs Series :
Canon A-Series SLR models - Archived Messages/Guestbook Entries

Canon AV-1 (1979) Canon AT-1 (1978) Canon A-1 (1978)
Canon AL-1 (1982) Canon AE-1 (1976) Canon AE-1 P (1981)

| 1051-1100 |

From jim Rodda (Tue Nov 23 06:44:10 1999 ):
Thought I would share my knowledge....I decided to take up repairing AE-1s as a hobby about 2 months ago. I just jumped in with both feet, bought a couple of repair manuals and bought some non working cameras off ebay. What I have learned is that for these the most common reason they didn't work was due to the tungston wire breaking. This is easy to diagnose because the camera looks fine (mirror is down) but it won't advance or shoot. If you unscrew the rewind knob and the snap ring and black cover underneath (very easy) you can see the brass control underneath. If you turn the shutter speed knob there should be cresponding movement here. If not then the string is broken. Unfortunately this is costly to fix at the shop. The string is $20.00 from Canon but tricky to replace and get the timing right. At least this may help you determine whatt is wrong with the camera....
From Terry Carraway (Tue Nov 23 02:02:46 1999 ):
Martin - My A-1 had this problem at one time. It had to go back to Canon twice to fix. What was happening was the display was not turning off. It is supposed to only come on when the shutter release is pressed halfway or the exposure lock is pressed. Mine just stayed on all the time. It took a circuit board replacement to fix mine.
From carla sigger (Mon Nov 22 17:40:20 1999 ):
Does anyone has a flash for the Canon AT-1 for sale.
From martin (Sun Nov 21 08:02:27 1999 ):
is it only mine Al-1 thats sucking the life out of the batteries?? i put in new ones today and took a photo, went out, came back and the batteries were empty!?!? is there a way of "turning the camera off" that i dont know about or what???
From Mike King (Fri Nov 19 09:58:54 1999 ):
I have an AE-1, and while shooting last night, the mirror became stuck in the "up" postition. I cannot advance the film nor snap another shot. How can I fix this? TIA.
From paul (Fri Nov 19 07:59:27 1999 ):
To Kai Pin Nad Terry. Thanks for your quick answers. To Tony. I had a AT-1 with the same problems you describe. The light streaks are caused from the felt gasket that the film access door closes against wearing out. It can be fixed, but the outer skin of the camera has to come off in order to replace it. Any shop that services canon's should be able to do it. I got mine replaced and the the camera cleaned and lubed for about $100.
From TONY M. (Fri Nov 19 05:31:22 1999 ):
HAVE A A1 WHICH IS HAVING A LGHT LEAK PROBLEM(SO I HAVE BEE TOLD) VERTICAL LINES DONE THE PRINT AT ODD PICTURES. SOME GOOD SOME HAVE THIS STREAK. WHO AVAILABLE TO WORK ON CAMERA. DON'T WANT TO LOSE IT.
From Bill (Fri Nov 19 05:25:02 1999 ):
Am interested in purchasing an A2 power winder for my AE1-P camera..If anyone has any info or has one for sale, please contact me..Thanks
From Kai Pin (Fri Nov 19 00:52:20 1999 ):
TO PAUL: Canon did manufactured black bodies for both the AE-1 and AE-Program and they were available as official imports in Malaysia during their times but I won't know about the situation in your country then.
From Terry Carraway (Fri Nov 19 00:38:39 1999 ):
Kevin - Glad things worked out for you. Should be no change with low battery. These cameras have voltage regulation circuits. Paul - I think that the motor drive can be used with the AE-1P, but not with the AE-1. The AE-1P and the A-1 do both use the Power Winder A and A2, the AE-1 only the Power Winder A. SteveG - The shutter cough or squeek is not a parts problem, unless you leave it too long. It is a lack of lubrication. And competant shop can fix it as part of a basic CLA. There are a couple of places that specialize in just fixig that problem. From what I have read, once yo ureally know what you are doing, you can fix it without any disassembly.
From Gerry (Mon Nov 29 08:21:05 1999 ):
On cases for an A series camera, I would recommend the products made by Zing Design. They are very practical, low cost and available in models to fit any lens you normally mount. All of my leather cases got moldy and I retired them to the dustbin.
From Katie (Sat Nov 27 07:56:13 1999 ):
I'm looking for a used A-1 body--does any one know where I might find one at a reasonable price?
From Terry Carraway (Sat Nov 27 00:18:31 1999 ):
Neal - Canon used to modify the Data Backs to go further with the date. I don' think they do so any longer, you you can try them. I have seen modified ones that go up to 2001. My problem with all the Canon Data Backs, is that they put the info in the frame. It wold be much better, if they put the info just outside the frame.
From THOMAS (Fri Nov 26 13:17:56 1999 ):
HAVE CANON AE-1 LOOKING FOR DIOPTRIC ADJUSTMENT LENSES. CANON MADE 10 OF THEM. ALSO LOOKING FOR POWER WINDER FOR AE-1. NEED CAMERA CASE CAP.
From marco (Fri Nov 26 12:27:13 1999 ):
Looking for a telephone number or e-mail address of a company that has cases that will fit the AE-1 1976 model
From CORNELIUS BANKS (Fri Nov 26 00:58:41 1999 ):
Hi there, I'm now using the Canon A1 with databack but like you said the year only goes to 1987. Is there anything the Canon Company can help me this problem? Thanks Neal
From Kai Pin (Thu Nov 25 21:11:33 1999 ):
FOR MARK CARUANA: The instruction manual of the Canon A-1 is readily available online in this site. It is featured as part of the camera's section under BASIC CAMERA OPERATION (14 parts). TO PAUL: You have to thank the developer (leofoo) of this site as well 'cause I am just the co-maintainer.
From MarK Caruana (Thu Nov 25 17:06:58 1999 ):
I am new into Photography, and got hold of a Canon A-1, I have to say it's a wonderful piece of equipment..... I would like to know if anyone, can tell me where to get an instruction manual, even a copy would do.... this site helped me a lot, but I'd really like to have the Manual..... Anyone interested to sell some Macro lens, or teleconvertor for the A-1, I'd like to buy one Thanks
From H. Rocco (Wed Nov 24 08:59:23 1999 ):
Can anyone out there repair the springs that make the flash pop up and also the spring that makes the back of an A35F come open for reloa ding
From paul (Tue Nov 23 14:03:33 1999 ):
Hello everyone in "A"Land. Great site, I stop in every day just to read this board. I must say I have learned a lot.(not bad for such an old dog) To Kai Pin, Thank You. Your passion for photography. Your work on this site and the sister F-1 site bring me pleasure everyday. THANK YOU
From leofoo (Tue Dec 7 12:12:24 1999 ):
#Jack#: 'After Use", considered mail me a set of high quality photostat copies. I think I should create a site for that as well - provided someone can mail me the source ( I think I can get clearance from Canon Marketing for permission to republish in this site, anyway, this is not s commercial site). That should benefit a few future users.
From FRANK (Tue Dec 7 03:54:45 1999 ):
Where can I buy a new camara case for my AE1?
From Jack (Tue Dec 7 03:21:44 1999 ):
To Mike: Dec 6, RE Canon A Databack. Look at www.craigcamera.com, go to Canon instruction manuals. He has one for $14.00 and is listed as #CAN-144. Good luck!
From Mike (Mon Dec 6 17:48:13 1999 ):
Hi, I'm looking for an Instruction Manual for the Data Back A. No luck at Ebay and everything else I have found, doesn't tell much about the setting on the exposures. Also does anyone know what the Manual button is used for? Any help would be appreciated.
From David (Sat Dec 4 18:30:31 1999 ):
I am looking to get the parts and pieces together for a 577G flash a freind gave me. This includes the transistor g, bracket, manual, and cables/sensor. I tried e-bay with no luck. Any dealers I might contact. Thanks, david sends
From Jim5618 (Fri Dec 3 22:24:21 1999 ):
The Canon part number is 732-521-7230. There aren't alot of parts left. Try looking on ebay for completed auctions on an AE-1 Program for parts, then email the winner and see if he will sell you the part off the camera. By the way, I have a couple of standard film doors for Canon AE-1. one is slightly brassed and the other is pretty worn but both aer straight and work well. I know a couple of Databack owners were looking for regular backs. I'll sell em for $15 and 10 including postage.
From Ray Girard (Fri Dec 3 14:02:22 1999 ):
I have had three AT-1's. There is no more logical workhorse anywhere. My shutter doesn't respond anymore. With a new battery, the battery-check shows a full battery and when the shutter is depressed there seems to be a small effect in the light meter needle, but it won't click. The film advance is cocked so now, since I can't shoot it, I can't re-cock it. Any ideas to try? Anyone have the same problem? -thanks,, Ray
From Janice (Fri Dec 3 05:41:55 1999 ):
I'm looking for information on how to order a part for my Canon AE 1 Program Camara, I just need the little black screw that goes on the front of the Camara.
From Tom (Wed Dec 1 21:36:32 1999 ):
I have with manules a pristine and tested Canon AT-1 body, I now wish to upgrade for a later model of Canon or Different A series if anyone is intrested in buying my AT-1 please Email me
From Terry Carraway (Mon Nov 29 23:49:26 1999 ):
Katie - There are many sources for used A-1s. If you want more piece of mind, go with a dealer. KEH on the web has a very good reputation (www.keh.com). You can also try eBay (www.ebay.com) for an online auction of many Canon items. The big thing there is to make sure you have a feel for what is a fair price, and don't get caught up in over bidding and paying too much. I have had very good lcuk with buying on eBay. The few times that things were not right, the seller made them right with a refund or replacement or both.
From Dr S (Sat Dec 25 11:00:04 1999 ):
Dr S responds to a worried Lydia- if your AE-1 has an old BIOS or an early version of Windows, you will need a patch to make it Y2K compatible. You can download it from the Canon web site, but better do it fast. Or the camera will stop functioning on 1 January at 0000 GMT. Or starting making exposures all by itself. That is a cruel lie,( My mother just kicked me hard) but you see how easily I can make this gobbledygook sound impressive. And prey on this millenial madness. I am worried more about illegal aerial firework landing on my patio. Or maybe Libyan rascals showing off to impress their leader that fruitcake with the helterskelter eyes. Relax Lydia, have an eggnog with your daughter and enjoy.
From Richard Marquardt (Sat Dec 25 07:56:35 1999 ):
I am interesting in improving my flash photography with my Canon AE-1 Progam Camera. I have tried the manual settings with some success, but not much consistency. Will the flash photography work best when the aperture is set to "A" for automatic, and the shutter speed to "Program?" I have a Canon FD 50 mm lense, and a Canon FD 75-200 mm lense, and a Vivitar 2600 D Autothrystor flash (which you can set to two different automatic settings).
From michael paholski (Sat Dec 25 07:46:46 1999 ):
I have a kit for sale including a Canon A1, 50mm lens and 100-300 lens all in new condition - any interest ??
From Lydia (Fri Dec 24 22:26:00 1999 ):
Just purchased a used Ae-1 program camera for daughter. Happened to think will the CPU be Y2k cmpliant?
From Terry Carraway (Tue Dec 21 23:18:25 1999 ):
Lynn - Most of the Vivitar line will work. Some will require a dedicated module. I know that the Vivitar 283 and 285 models will work. But the best is the Canon 199A which was designed for the A-1. And they are available on the used market in excellent shape.
From Lynn (Tue Dec 21 08:48:58 1999 ):
I am looking for a Vivitar flash that is compatible with the Canon A-1. Does anyone know of a model number for the Vivitar flash?
From Kai Pin (Thu Dec 16 01:46:55 1999 ):
TO CHO SUNG JONG: All you need to do is go down towards the bottom of this message board and click the underlined "Canon A-1 (1978)" section. Once you enter, click "Basic Camera Operation (14 part)", that is the online instruction manual for the Canon A-1 camera. FOR GEORGE VAN EE: Try Keh Camera Broker at http://www.keh.com/ -- they have all the three FD 100-300mm f/5.6 versions (normal, improved and FD-L).
From CHO, Sung Jong (Wed Dec 15 06:25:48 1999 ):
I bought a A-1 used camera for my daughter recently. I need user's manual for A-1 in English or in Japanese or in Korean.
From George Van Ee (Wed Dec 15 05:40:57 1999 ):
I recently dropped my 100-300 mm xoom lenz for the A1 camera I would like to get another. can you help me out?
From Lon (Sun Dec 12 02:52:33 1999 ):
AE-1 PROGRAM VITAL INFO!!! There has been a weak point in the manufacture of the AE-1 Program. If you have a NO FLASH TRIGGERING situation, the problem could be: the very fine RED wire that attatches to the HOTSHOE. It is located under the top cover of the camera, and you'll find it has come loose at the REMOTE-FLASH HOTSHOE (located at the front-right-hand side of the camera. TO REPAIR: remove the top (requires lens-mount finishing ring removal, removal of the rubber pad at the rewind crank(two screws under it) and the breaking of the glue-bond that holds the aluminum rind that fits around the shutter-release button, two spring-clips(one under the rewind, one under the ASA selector) and DO NOT ATTEMPT TO REMOVE THE SHUTTER-SPEED SELECTOR WHEEL!! IT COMES OFF WITH THE TOP OF THE CAMERA!! You break it....you're screwed. You'll see the broken solder connection at the hotshoe...it'll be obvious...solder with care!. You're welcome.
From Terry Carraway (Tue Jan 4 00:22:43 2000 ):
To all those about the Canon A series squeek - The squeek is caused by the mirror dampner. This piece keeps the mirro under control as it moves to avoid too much mirror slap or even breaking the mirror. It is not that difficult to fix, but you have to know what you are doing. You need to get a SMALL amount of the proper lube on the rotating brass rod that acts as the mirror dampener. Typically to do this you have to remove the mirror box, which is NOT a trivial job. Or at least getting it back in is not trivial. Supposedly, once you understand fully how and where everything is, you can do it without taking out the mirror box. The best thing is to take it to a repair place and have them repair it, and get a full CLA (Clean Lube Adjust) done. If your camera has been so long without service (something like 20 years for most) a CLA is a good thing. If not you can have the squeek repaired by itself for about $40US. As to the person whose camera is not working, it sounds like the ultimate end to the squeek, the thing gets so bad the camera malfunctions. As to exactly how to tell, it is pretty obvious. The camera should make some noise as it operates, but if you hear a grating, squeeking, or any other load sound, it is probably the Canon A series squeek. Compare it to any other SLR and it will be pretty obvious if you have it.
From marion brady (Mon Jan 3 21:32:03 2000 ):
We have a Canon AE1 and are very satisfied with it the only thing is that we lost the Film turn switch.Can anyone tell us where we can get another one.Plaese help have little kids that are worth taking Pictures off
From Dennis Shaw (Mon Jan 3 09:37:25 2000 ):
I have a Canon AE1 Program which is in excellent shape. However, the "foot" plate on my Speedlite 188A flash is broken and parts are no longer available for that model. I would like to find parts or purchase a good used Speedlite 188A flash. Any ideas?
From Rick List (Mon Jan 3 04:08:09 2000 ):
I have a A1 that I bought used. Fell in love with it. I have been hearing alot about mirror squeak from these cameras. My camera does make a noise from the mirror. Is this a serious problem. Can I damage the camera by ignoring it. Where is a reputable place to get it repared.
From Thomas A Turkewitz (Mon Jan 3 02:00:09 2000 ):
Have a Canon AV-1 has been years since I have used and would like to know where I can find an instuction guide for this camera - thanks
From Paul Reis (Sun Jan 2 08:30:55 2000 ):
Hi, I have a canon ae-1 which does not work. The film advance lever is in the cocked position and when I push the button to take a picture, the mirror goes to the up position and stays there. The open and closing screens do not actuate. The "canon squeak" is present. In order to recreate this situation, I must remove the bottom cover and relatch the mirror closing circuit, which puts the mirror down again. All other functions seem to work, including light meter, delay shutter timer, etc. From reference to an ae-1 tech manual, I feel the problem is mechanical and not electronic in nature. Is there any way to lubricate the shutter mechanism without complete disassembly? Also, should I be looking at any other areas? Many thanks for the help.
From michael (Sat Jan 1 23:30:49 2000 ):
Hi- You have all heard it! The classic "A" series squeek. The mirror cage or "box", right? How does one fix it themselves? Is there an online repair manual? I have seen books for sale and am not really interested. Seems like this is a big secret for a very common problem.If anybody is willing to help, please email me at rafvol@aol.com. Thank you much. I have been asking about this issue for a long time.
From MarK (Wed Dec 29 15:55:13 1999 ):
Hello Everyone, I am in search of a Macro Lens for my A-1, and a Teleconvertor 2x for a standard 50mm lens and one for a zoom lens 70-150mm, I read somewhere that I need two A and B, anyway can anyone help ? don't tell me to try KEH of E-bay, I wasn't lucky at all at e-bay and KEH won't ship to Europe... thanks
From Terry Carraway (Wed Dec 29 04:00:07 1999 ):
Richard - Does the Vivitar flash have a dedicated module or mode for the Canon A series? Does it automatically set the shutter speed to 1/60 when it is on on the camera, turned on, and ready? If not, you need to go to manual mode. The A series flash sync up to 1/60 of a second. So set your shutter speed to this. Then set the flash to an aperture and set the camera to the same aperture. The way these flashes work is they read the amount of light being reflected from the subject, and it turns the flash off when the reflected light matches what it figures is the proper exposure for the given aperture. I have a Canon A-1 and 199A. With this setup the flash sets the camera to the proper settings based on the flash settings.
From Samuel Salazar Genovez (Tue Dec 28 07:59:12 1999 ):
I am getting problems with my AT-1, it has ligths spots in the reveled pictures. So i guess all the gasket? i mean all the little rubber pieces are damaged. Theres is somebody who knows how to fix this kind of problems. Thanks so much

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